(Fairbanks, AK) —Due to the increase in cooler, longer nights and success from fire containment activities, the wildfire threat to public safety in the Chena River State Recreation Area has been reduced. Effective Friday, August 16, the Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation is lifting access restrictions throughout the park. All trails, public use cabins, and access roads on the south side of the highway between Mile 27 to Mile 39 will be open for public use at that time.

Due to the dry conditions, the public is urged to err on the side of caution when conducting backcountry activities. The public is asked to maintain situational awareness as fire activity could be unpredictable and rapid growth could occur under warmer, drier conditions.